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USBC Policy Brunch 2023: A Resounding Success Shaping the Future of Black Business during CBC Week in Washington, DC

Washington, DC, September 27, 2023 — The 2023 USBC BLACKPrint Policy Brunch, powered by Robinhood and Google, held on September 21, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Robinhood Offices in Washington, DC, was an unparalleled success! This gathering brought together over 120 esteemed Black politicians, visionary entrepreneurs, dedicated Chamber members, and influential changemakers for a crucial dialogue about the State of Black America and the pressing issues impacting our business community.

During the event, attendees engaged in dynamic conversations that spanned critical areas of concern for the Black business community. Updates on the SBA 8(a) Contracting Program illuminated the opportunities and challenges faced by Black-owned businesses in accessing government contracts and highlighted the need for reforms to ensure equity and inclusion. The discussion on the value of digital tools for driving access and inclusion shed light on how technology can empower Black entrepreneurs, broaden market reach, and bridge digital divides. Additionally, insights into the impacts of foreign policy and trade on Black-owned businesses emphasized the importance of global economic engagement, fair trade practices, and diplomatic efforts in fostering a conducive environment for the growth and success of Black businesses on an international scale.

These conversations underscored the multifaceted nature of the challenges and opportunities facing the Black business community, inspiring collective action and advocacy for meaningful change. Distinguished Special Guests who graced the occasion with their insights and expertise included:

  • Ron Busby, Sr., President & CEO, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
  • Talisha Bekavac, Executive Vice President, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
  • Charles O’Neal, Chairman of the Board, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
  • Diedra Henry-Spires: Senior Advisor, U.S. Small Business Administration
  • Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-04): United States House of Representatives
  • Ron Busby Jr., Head of Product at ByBlack
  • Chanelle Hardy: Head of Civil Rights at Google
  • Mary Elizabeth Taylor: Vice President, Head of International Government and External
  • Affairs at Robinhood
  • Damola Ogundipe: CEO & Founder of Plural
  • Denzel Singletary: U.S Government Affairs and Senior Lead at Robinhood

We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, whose unwavering support continually propels us forward in our mission to empower Black business owners with the tools and resources they need for success.

At the heart of our mission lies theBLACKprint – a set of principles that serve as the compass guiding the U.S. Black Chambers’ policy priorities across all five pillars of our organization. We invite you to review the latest edition of the BLACKPrintto gain insight into the Black economic agenda.

As President and CEO, Ron Busby Sr., eloquently remarked, “The USBC plays a pivotal role in shaping advocacy efforts and addressing the issues that matter most to our community. We stand
firm in our commitment to advancing economic equity, justice, and prosperity for Black business owners across the nation.”

For more information on our ongoing initiatives and to join us in our mission, please visit our website at usblackchambers.org.

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About U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC):
The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership, and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at usblackchambers.org